<p>I'm doing my Columbia app and there's a question which asks, 'Why do you want to study in Columbia' (or something like that).</p>
<p>Now I've got a couple of reasons but I'm worried they are too clich</p>
<p>Your problem is that none of those reasons are TIED TO YOU. Any of the 20,000 applicants can write the same points that you just did and it will sound the same.</p>
<p>Right. When I applied, I listed New York as well, but tied it in to the website myself and a friend had built to explore urban issues and display street photography. I also talked about the Core, and related it to my background in Latin and other classics. You don't have to have any specific credentials to tie such things to yourself, but explaining why you specifically are interested in them rather than merely repeating why you find them to be good in theory will certainly help the committee make its decision.</p>
<p>I think the best way to avoid sounding cliche is to be honest and try your best to reflect that honesty in your essay. I agree with C2002, definitely tie the reason back to yourself and your own personal goals and aspirations.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>This year's online application through formatting errors allows approximately 100 words. Ur not going to be able to talk about much...</p>
<p>I know that the committe wants to admit someone they know will make use of all that Columbia offers. From talking to an admissions officer, I know they don't want you to put just that it's in NYC, because there are lots of other prestigious schools in NYC, so to them you haven't really answered the question of why COLUMBIA. Also, I posted a thread similar to this a little while back and someone responded to it with an example. His friend had done a WHOLE lot of research about the specifics of the department(s) he was interested in, the faculty, etc. and that goes along with you indea about the really great econ dept. That sort of research show you have not only initiative, but that you want to go to Columbia for qualities specific to Columbia, not that it's just "a great school." Good luck with you applications!</p>
<p>Thanks...
I'm going to do more research about Columbia, and find specific reasons relating to me asnswering 'Why Columbia?'</p>
<p>Raghav K.</p>